Fiji have named a 30-man group for the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup, a squad that blends hardened international experience with promising first-timers. Head coach Mick Byrne has called on leaders Semi Radradra, Seta Tamanivalu, Mesake Doge and world-class number eight Bill Mata to set the tone around three potential debutants: Taniela Rakuro, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre and Isoa Tuwai.
Byrne underlined the value of balance and mentorship, noting that young players flourish when surrounded by seasoned pros who model elite standards every day. He also pointed to learnings from the July Tests: set-piece gains that need to keep trending up, sharper work at the breakdown and better ball retention, plus a more clinical edge to finish opportunities. Defensively, he said the team has taken clear steps forward compared with last year.
A familiar core of Fijian Drua combinations should support continuity in scrum and lineout, with healthy competition at halfback and fly-half promising varied game management and kicking options. The backline has punch and guile through Radradra and Tamanivalu in midfield, while Mata’s power and leadership should anchor the loose forwards. Out wide, Samusamuvodre adds fresh pace alongside Rakuro and Ponipate Loganimasi.
Fiji are slated to open their campaign against Tonga on August 30 at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva—an island derby that typically hinges on set-piece accuracy, gain-line dominance and disciplined defense against direct running.
FIJI Water Flying Fijians squad for the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup
Props: Eroni Mawi, Haereiti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Samu Tawake, Meli Tuni
Hookers: Tevita Ikanivere, Zuriel Togiatama
Locks: Isoa Nasilasila, Temo Mayanavanua, Mesake Vocevoce, Etonia Waqa
Loose forwards: Elia Canakaivata, Motikai Murray, Isoa Tuwai, Bill Mata, Kitione Salawa
Scrum-halves: Philip Baselala, Simione Kuruvoli
Fly-halves: Caleb Muntz, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula
Centres: Kalaveti Ravouvou, Inia Tabuavou, Semi Radradra, Seta Tamanivalu
Outside backs: Sam Wye, Kemu Valetini, Ponipate Loganimasi, Taniela Rakuro, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre
What this selection signals
– Continuity and cohesion: A Drua-influenced pack gives ready-made connections in set-piece and phase play.
– Real competition at 9 and 10: Baselala and Kuruvoli push each other at scrum-half; Muntz and Armstrong-Ravula offer different control and kicking profiles at fly-half.
– Leadership through the spine: Mata’s carrying and Radradra’s authority can settle tight contests and create midfield mismatches.
– New energy out wide: Samusamuvodre and Rakuro bring speed and finishing instincts that complement Fiji’s attacking identity.
Logical outlook
– Set-piece platform: If the front row’s cohesion translates into clean ball and territory, Fiji’s dual-playmaker options can stretch defenses.
– Breakdown and retention: Improved accuracy here will amplify Fiji’s strike power and reduce transition pressure.
– Finishing: Turning 22 entries into points remains the key step from “promising” to “ruthless.”
Positive note
Handing potential debuts to Rakuro, Samusamuvodre and Tuwai within a settled, experienced group underlines healthy depth and succession planning. With clear growth areas identified and a strong leadership core, Fiji are positioned to build momentum quickly and showcase their trademark flair.
Summary
– Fiji name a 30-man squad mixing seasoned stars with three potential debutants.
– Byrne targets continued set-piece growth, stronger breakdown work and more clinical finishing, noting defensive improvement year-on-year.
– A Drua-influenced core and competitive halves group provide stability and variety.
– Fiji open against Tonga on August 30 in Suva, aiming to turn recent progress into results while building toward the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
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